‘We Will Start Politics January 2026’ — Wike’s Comment Reignites Rivers Political Tension

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has sent a strong political signal in Rivers State, declaring that full political activities will resume from January 2026, a statement that has once again stirred tension amid claims of a peace deal between him and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Wike’s remarks have heightened speculation that the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State is far from over and may enter a new phase as the new year approaches.

The former Rivers governor made the declaration on Saturday while addressing stakeholders from Ahoada East and Ahoada West Local Government Areas, shortly after a thanksgiving service organised by the Chairman of the South-South Development Forum, Chibudom Nwuche, in Ochigba community, Ahoada East LGA.

Speaking bluntly to his supporters, Wike left no doubt about his intentions going forward.

“And we are going forward from January next year. Let me inform you, we will start politics. Let me inform you, we will start what, politics,” he said.

His statement comes against the backdrop of months of political tension between camps loyal to Wike and those aligned with Governor Fubara, following the breakdown of relations between both leaders after the 2023 general elections. 

Despite several intervention attempts by party leaders and stakeholders to broker peace, cracks within the Rivers political structure have remained visible.

Wike also used the occasion to reflect on the 2023 elections, accusing some political actors of enjoying the benefits of victory without openly standing with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu when support was most risky.

According to him, many politicians distanced themselves during the heat of the campaign but have since emerged to claim loyalty.

“In that 2023, it was difficult for so many people to come out to say, vote for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Wike said.
“But we did it when it was tough… we stood firm and said on your mandate we stand.”

He credited his political base in Rivers State for helping to strengthen Tinubu’s mandate in the state, insisting that their courage during the elections laid the foundation for the current political reality.

Without mentioning names, Wike questioned the sincerity of those now praising the President, asking where they stood when the political environment was hostile and uncertain.

Addressing talks of reconciliation and peace deals in Rivers politics, the FCT Minister made it clear that he would not associate with any agreement that lacked sincerity or commitment.

“You know me, I believe agreement is agreement. Anything you know you cannot do, don’t say it,” he said, stressing that he does not support symbolic or dishonest peace arrangements.

He argued that many of the loud voices in the political space only appeared after the major battles had already been fought, insisting that consistency and loyalty should matter in politics.

Wike acknowledged that his political stance has made him one of the most criticised politicians in the country but maintained that his insistence on standing by agreements and political choices has remained unchanged before, during, and after elections.

Reaffirming his loyalty to President Tinubu, Wike assured his supporters that their sacrifices would not be forgotten and urged them to remain calm, adding that there would be a proper time to speak further on political matters.

The thanksgiving event attracted several political figures, including Senators Magnus Abe, Philip Aduda, Wilson Ake, and Olaka Wogu, as well as ambassador-designate Aaron Chukwuemeka, OCJ Okocha, Ferdinand Anabrabra, and other party leaders.

Wike concluded by thanking the people of Ahoada and surrounding communities for their continued support, insisting that there was no cause for panic as events would unfold in due time.